Running Man Reboot: Screenwriter Shares Insights

The recent release of The Running Man has sparked discussions on how this adaptation aligns with Stephen King’s original novella. Many viewers noticed that the film’s ending diverges significantly from the book’s more somber conclusion. This raised questions about the effectiveness of the new screenplay.

Screenwriter Insights on The Running Man Reboot

Stephen E. de Souza, the screenwriter of the 1987 adaptation, shared his thoughts on the reboot during an interview with El-Balad. Known for iconic films such as Die Hard and Commando, de Souza expressed a mix of support and concern for the updated version starring Glen Powell. He stated that he was “rooting” for the project but recognized that something was amiss during production.

Comparison of Endings

De Souza pointed out that both the original and current versions altered the novel’s ending. He remarked, “The book’s ending is a downer, so you need a new ending.” He believes that while both adaptations attempted to modify the conclusion, the earlier version, despite its budget constraints, managed a clearer resolution.

Reception and Challenges

The Running Man struggled at the box office, falling behind competitors such as Now You See Me 3: Now You Don’t. Critics noted that even the favorable reviews highlighted issues with the film’s ending. De Souza commented, “Even the reviews that love it say it stumbles at the end.” This indicates a widespread recognition of the reboot’s shortcomings.

Conclusion: Future of The Running Man Franchise

As the dust settles on this reboot, de Souza mused about the potential for a third adaptation in 2045. He suggested, “Maybe the third version will stick the landing.” The challenges faced by this new interpretation illustrate the difficulties in adapting beloved source material while still appealing to modern audiences.